we see this headline in "the boston globe." what advice did you have for this fellow independent? guest: we have spoken a couple of times recently. essentially what he asked me about it is what is a like to function within the democratic caucus. the democratic leadership have treated me with fairness. they have not discriminated against me. i am an independent. senator reid has been responsive to the needs of vermont. i'm glad he is joining the caucus. host: does it give the independent voice any more sway? guest: i think it does. he won as an independent. host: environment, public works are among the committee's senators sanders sits on. he was the mayor of burlington. gloria from texas. caller: good morning. can used to that chart that you showed earlier about what they would be paying in taxes? host: we will get the ready for you. did it concern you? caller: everybody is talking out devastating it will be to go over the cliff. people making under $20,000, $7.50 a week. there is only $270 a week. i didn't think the country will be devastated if those tax rates become effective.